SP-Star Ayara vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch to the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it becomes evident that both offer distinct advantages for different preferences. The Ayara switch is known for its medium heftiness, providing a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile. It is ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying tactile experience with each press. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch boasts a silent tactile design, making it perfect for office environments where noise reduction is crucial. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, the Penguin switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Akko Penguin are both made of nylon, which is a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with this material. The similarities in housing material between the two keyboards suggest that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, while both the Ayara and the Penguin feature nylon top and bottom housing, the impact of each housing material differs in terms of sound production. The qualities of the bottom housing material will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, while the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key. This distinction in how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience may result in subtle differences in sound and feel between the two keyboards, despite both being made of nylon.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Akko Penguin share the same nylon composition, offering users a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The differences in how the top and bottom housing materials impact sound production may result in slight variations in typing feedback between the two keyboards. Overall, both keyboards benefit from the acoustical properties of nylon, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch reveals some interesting differences. The Ayara has no specified actuation force, while the Penguin has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ayara has a heavier force of 62 grams compared to the Penguin's 60 grams. This means that the Ayara is the heavier of the two switches overall. Those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Akko Penguin, as its actuation force is lighter. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the SP-Star Ayara due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Akko Penguin tactile switch. The Ayara offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Penguin, which may be preferred by some users who enjoy a more pronounced key press. On the other hand, the Penguin's shorter travel distance may be favored by gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences. Whether you choose the Ayara or the Penguin, you can expect reliable performance depending on your specific preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Ayara has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ayara for $5.40.
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch provides a clacky sound profile that is described as high-pitched, offering a sharp and crisp noise with each press. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is noted for its muted sound, producing a softer and quieter typing experience. The Ayara's high-pitched sound may be more suitable for those who enjoy a sharp key press feedback, while the Penguin's muted sound is ideal for environments where noise reduction is essential, such as in an office setting. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will depend on individual taste and the surrounding environment.
In terms of feel, both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch are described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The Ayara specifically offers a soft bottom-out feel when typing, while the Penguin provides a rounded tactile bump for a satisfying feedback with each press. Additionally, the Penguin switch is noted as being of medium weight, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, ideal for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. The Ayara's medium heftiness may cater to those seeking a more substantial typing experience, while the Penguin's tactile bump offers a gentle and approachable typing feel for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ayara provides a clacky, high-pitched sound profile and a medium heftiness for a hearty typing experience, the Penguin features a muted sound and a rounded tactile bump for a quieter and satisfying typing feel. Both switches boast a polished finish for smooth key travel, making them suitable for different preferences and environments. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and the specific use case for the keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you need a switch for office environments where noise minimization is essential, the Akko Penguin tactile switches with their rounded tactile bump and quiet profile are the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a medium actuation force and balanced sound profile, in which case the Ayara would be suitable, or if you need a switch that is silent and gentle on the fingers, making the Penguin the ideal option. Consider your typing preferences and environment to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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